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Tairawhiti Roads is urging motorists in the Gisborne region to make their summer holiday journeys safer by planning ahead and driving to the conditions.

"Roads across Tairawhiti are likely to be busy around Christmas and New Year, with many tourists and holidaymakers heading to our region for their summer holidays,” Tairawhiti Roads General Manager Dave Hadfield says.

“The period between December 28 and January 1 will be particularly busy with visitors coming to town for Rhythm and Vines. Motorists should expect heavy traffic volumes on Back Ormond Road.

“Congestion and delays are inevitable during peak hours, but the worst of the frustrations can be eased if everyone leaves plenty of time for their journey, drives to the conditions and plans ahead.

“The NZ Transport Agency’s journey planner website(external link) is a great tool to help plan your trip with real-time traffic information and updates on delays, road works and road closures.

“Look for an alternative route, or consider leaving when traffic is lighter, either early in the morning or late at night.”

Road works on State Highway 35 between Gisborne and Ruatoria will continue until Friday 21 December, with any outstanding work to be recommenced in the new year. A section of unsealed road on the state highway, five kilometres north of Tolaga Bay, will remain at 50 kilometres per hour throughout the summer holiday period.

The 30 kilometres per hour speed limit on Gladstone Road Bridge will also remain over this period.

There will also be a lowered speed limit of 70 kilometres per hour in place on State Highway 35 around the freedom camping site at Pouawa over the holiday period.

“Motorists are advised to take extra care when driving through our road work sites and follow the temporary speed restrictions to ensure everyone stays safe on our roads,” Mr Hadfield says.

Tips for safe driving on your summer holiday:

Check your car is in good “health” before you head off. Check your tyre pressure and tread, windscreen wipers, indicators and lights.

Take extra care when travelling in holiday periods because of increased traffic volumes, congestion, tiredness and people driving in unfamiliar environments.

Drive to the conditions - whether it’s the weather, the road you’re on, the time of day or amount of traffic.

Avoid fatigue. Take regular breaks to stay alert.

Keep a safe following distance from vehicles in front so you can stop safely.

Be patient – overtaking is unlikely to make a significant difference to your journey time due to the amount of traffic expected over the weekend.

Allow plenty of time. Remember you are on holiday, so there’s no need to rush.

Plan ahead for a safe, enjoyable journey this summer. Keep up to date with:

The NZ Transport Agency works to create transport solutions for all New Zealanders – from helping new drivers earn their licences, to leading safety campaigns to investing in public transport, state highways and local roads.